Peoples Bank Catawba Valley Blvd Business Center Manager Will Daughtrey and Conover Business Center Manager Amy Morton recently presented a program on scam and fraud prevention as part of the Catawba Council on Aging’s Scam & Fraud Series. Held at the West Hickory Senior Center in Hickory, NC, the presentation aimed to raise awareness and provide practical advice on recognizing and responding to fraudulent activities.
Will highlighted the importance of identifying red flags, emphasizing that “if something doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t.” He advised attendees to promptly contact their financial institution if they notice anything unfamiliar on their accounts. Using real-life examples, Will outlined common scams, such as text messages designed to steal personal information and aggressive phone calls pressuring individuals to pay large sums of money under threats of jail time. He also detailed impersonation scams where fraudsters pretend to represent organizations like energy companies or government entities, undermining trust with convincing tactics like fake caller IDs.
Amy provided guidance on handling fraud concerns during weekends when banks may not be open. She encouraged participants to use technology, such as temporarily blocking debit cards via banking apps, to protect themselves if they feel vulnerable. She also stressed the value of pausing and taking a deliberate approach when encountering high-pressure situations, reminding the group that legitimate organizations will respect their need to verify information. Amy also encouraged attendees not to feel embarrassed if they fall victim to a scam, noting that even experienced businesses have been tricked by sophisticated techniques.
Both presenters addressed a range of scams, including grandparent scams and unsolicited charity donation requests. Attendees were advised to ask for documentation before donating to a charity and to always call verified phone numbers on their bank cards when addressing issues related to account security.
This informative session underscores the critical need for community education and vigilance in combating scams and fraud. Peoples Bank is proud to play an active role in empowering individuals through initiatives like the Catawba Council on Aging’s Scam & Fraud Series. By providing practical advice, real-world examples, and strategies for safeguarding personal information, we aim to cultivate a more informed and cautious community.
Remember, staying proactive, asking questions, and seeking support from trusted institutions like Peoples Bank can make all the difference in protecting yourself and your loved ones from fraudulent activities. Stay alert, stay informed, and don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance when in doubt.
